Job cuts: Ready and willing, but no work

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I've lost count of how many jobs I've applied for over the last year. I've had a couple of temporary jobs, but am still waiting on the elusive permanent one.

I have excellent references, three diplomas plus other successful training. I use Trade Me, Seek, Work and Income, and other sites every day, I trawl through the papers, I go into places off the street, I get my name in with various people, and so on.

About 25 per cent reply to my application and the rest I never hear from again. I've been told to bring in my CV to interviews because they're interested.

I bring it in and then never hear anything more.

I went into a job off the street last week, and was told to rush in for an interview the next day. I did, but that was the last I heard.

Many times I go into the shop and find that a teenager with very poor customer service skills has been hired. I've been told by friends that my customer service skills can run circles round the ones that got the job.

Employers: Please ring or email the applicant, even a form letter is better than nothing. It is demoralising to sit by the phone all day, only for a week to go by and then realise you have missed out again.

Comments from two shops that did reply said "sorry but you don't fit the criteria".

I often wondered what that criteria was as I had experience in customer service, tills, cash handling, books, stationery, sales and magazines.

Maybe the criteria was they wanted a young person or a student.

Unfortunately, age discrimination does happen, especially in the large chains.

All I want is a chance. I'm even prepared to go in for a trial.

I'm willing to start from the bottom and work my way up.

I am skilled, motivated, professional and would be an asset to any company.

I am a mother, but I have childcare in place and a supportive husband who doesn't mind me working.